72703S03-I There is a national interest in the efficient and economical utilization of biomass as an energy resource. Consequently, there is a need for the development of a feedstock-flexible, modular, biomass drying system that can cater to local market drivers in an efficient, economical, safe, and environmentally responsible manner. This project will develop a pulsed combustion drying system for biomass. Phase I will identify and procure feedstock, modify and prepare a test facility for biomass drying, perform feedstock characterization tests, carry out a preliminary commercial system design, estimate costs, and perform technical, environmental, and economic assessments. A pilot scale unit in Phase II will generate process characterization data for scale-up and commercialization. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: Deployment of the novel, cost-effective, environmentally benign, and efficient biomass drying system should enhance biomass utilization, promote energy savings, and reduce pollutant emissions.